Physical Environment

The classroom's physical environment should be an inviting area that supports and promotes student thinking. By organizing the physical space and room arrangement with intention, teachers can provide an environment that is interesting and authentic for student learning.


Classroom Arrangement

• The room is for learners to move easily from one area to another.
• Desk arrangement reflects cooperative work.

The Teacher's Desk

• Teacher desk is at the rear of the classroom
• The desk is neatly organized which allows the teacher to work efficiently

Classroom Supplies and Resources

• Resources are organized and easily accessible. Paper, sharpened pencils, markers, sticky notes, etc. should readily available for students.

Supplies in the center of the group table

literacy center supplies

math manipulatives


Student Mailboxes

• Stored resources are out of sight.

Storage Closet

Shelving Unit

• Involve students in the organization and placement of materials and books in the room.

• Create spaces in your classroom that are inviting and thoughtful.
  • This will develop a sense of warmth and community in your classroom.

Guided Reading Center
Reading Center with chairs and pillows
Whole group teaching carpet area



Classrooms should be filled with visible print that is attractive, meaningful, and authentic.



Comprehension strategies are clearly posted, as well as examples of student work showing how they have applied the strategies.



The walls reflect the learning that is taking place in the classroom.



Published Math Journal Pages

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• Bulletin boards are tools for learning rather than for decoration purposes. Boards should be displays of anchor charts, authentic student work, or other displays of student thinking. Evidence of student writing is evident and developed across the curriculum.

• Writing process bulletin board
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• Writing Samples displayed with Standards
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• Punctuation Anchor Chart
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• Throughout the classroom, walls should reflect the learning that is taking place across the content areas. Instruction needs to be focused and purposeful. A visitor should feel a sense of purpose and industry when walking through the school environment.

Cross Curricular Unit of Study: This display shows the students' knowledge of the subject in the areas of math, science and writing.

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